More than 16,500 New Yorkers have applied to the state’s new free community college program for adults in high-demand fields, Governor Kathy Hochul announced during a visit to LaGuardia Community College. The initiative, known as CUNY and SUNY Reconnect, will begin in Fall 2025 and is part of the governor’s broader efforts to expand access to higher education and strengthen the workforce.
The program targets the four million working-age adults in New York who do not already have a college degree or credential. It covers tuition, fees, books, and supplies at CUNY and SUNY campuses after applicable financial aid is applied. Eligible fields include advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, engineering, technology, nursing and allied health fields, green and renewable energy, and pathways to teaching in shortage areas.
Governor Hochul said: “The cost of pursuing a degree should never be a barrier for New Yorkers – we are proud to provide an opportunity for millions of CUNY and SUNY students to achieve their dreams. I am committed to making education more affordable and accessible, and the Reconnect program continues to pave the way forward for students as they enter our State’s future workforce.”
The free community college initiative was first outlined in Governor Hochul’s 2025 State of the State address as part of her ongoing commitment to affordable education.
To support student success beyond financial assistance, the program also provides funding for academic advising, student success coaching, and marketing outreach.
CUNY Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez said: “Each year, CUNY community colleges enable thousands of New Yorkers to transform their lives. By removing financial barriers for adult learners in high-demand fields at CUNY’s community colleges, Governor Hochul and the state legislature have made it clear it’s never too late to start or re-start your higher education journey. I want to thank Governor Hochul for her tireless commitment to CUNY and to the promise of public higher education.”
CUNY Board of Trustees Chairperson William C. Thompson Jr. added: “We are pleased to see that so many adult New Yorkers are already taking advantage of this opportunity to earn a tuition-free CUNY degree that will pay off for them and their families. We applaud Governor Hochul and the state legislature for their vision that has brought this program to fruition.”
LaGuardia Community College President Kenneth Adams stated: “Community colleges play a vital role in higher education and workforce development by providing accessible, affordable, and career-focused education, particularly for underserved populations. Offering free community college enhances the impact they have on the lives of New Yorkers. We are grateful to Governor Hochul for her unwavering dedication to higher education and her work to expand opportunities for every New Yorker.”
State Senate Deputy Majority Leader Michael Gianaris commented: “It’s incredible to see thousands of New Yorkers be able to continue their education and pursue new opportunities through the free community college program. I’m proud that in partnership with Governor Hochul, the New York legislature was able to make college more accessible and affordable for New Yorkers.”
State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky noted: “Everyone’s educational journey is different. Sometimes the path has hurdles and challenges. This initiative will enable students between the ages of 25 to 55 to complete their journey. It also expands work force development in high demand fields. As a result, everyone benefits. I want to thank Governor Hochul, Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins, and Speaker Heastie for enacting this creative approach.”
Assemblymember Alicia Hyndman said: “As Chair of the Higher Education Committee, I am proud to see New York leading the way in expanding access to life-changing educational opportunities. The SUNY and CUNY Reconnect programs are breaking down barriers for adult learners—many of whom are balancing work, family, and other responsibilities—by making college truly affordable and within reach. By investing in our people and preparing them for careers in high-demand fields, we are not only transforming individual lives but strengthening the economic future of our communities and our state.”
Assemblymember Claire Valdez stated: “I’m thrilled to have passed this important initiative in the state budget, and that Governor Hochul chose LaGuardia Community College in Queens as the site to rally around free community college. Working class New Yorkers deserve a high quality education, empowering them to take the next step in their careers and secure a better future for themselves and their families.”
